THE arrival of summer in Devon can only mean one thing — the return of Powderham Castle's highly anticipated open-air concerts.

Past years have seen massive stars including Elton John, Tom Jones, Will Young, The Osmonds and Katherine Jenkins perform in the grounds of the picturesque castle beside the Exe Estuary in Kenton.

Last summer's Powderham concerts were hailed another success with three concerts held over successive days in July.

Boyzone kicked off the fun, followed by a nostalgic feast the next night with The Greatest 80s Party Ever. Then it was it was the turn of Katie Melua to take to the stage.

This year's line-up begins with a return of The Greatest 80s Party Ever! (Again) after the success of last year's event.

Unforgettable singers from the era, including Marc Almond, ABC, Altered Images and Doctor and The Medics, will be offering a night of non-stop hits on Saturday, July 25.

The following night - Sunday, July 26 - sees the return of legendary rock act Status Quo. The band first performed at the venue in 2003 and enjoyed it so much it was back again the following year. The band is now looking forward to its third concert at the venue.

Both nights are picnic concerts and the Saturday night will end with a spectacular firework finale.

Powderham Castle general manager Simon Fishwick said: "Building on the success of last year we have got another good line-up this year. From the interest that has been shown so far by people, they are all looking forward to coming and having a mad evening.

"I went to the 80s party last year and the atmosphere was fantastic. People were arriving with orange hair and big parties of 10 to 20 people were all arriving at the same time. It was just a big, big party with some old party animals being watched by a lot of even older party animals!

"For the Status Quo concert we've had people ringing from all over the country for tickets. The band has got such a loyal fan following — it's quite incredible.

"We've sold a lot of tickets to people for both concerts who are going for it and are making a weekend of it.

"The last time Status Quo came to Powderham the band members turned up with their families and they all ended up having tea with Lord and Lady Devon, who live at the castle.

"Last year's concerts were held on the only really good weekend we had the entire season.

"It's a fantastic setting and people really enjoy it. Next year we very much hope to host even more concerts."